The two points dropped by QPR at Preston on Saturday might not be the worst thing in the long run - says Clint Hill.

The 1-1 draw diminished Rs slim play-off hopes even further, but the stalwart defender reckons a second Championship campaign will benefit Hoops eventually.

The club has moved to a tempting 200-1, OK if you’ve got a spare quid, says the veteran recalled to the team when Grant Hall got injured - and then kept the ex-Spurs player on the bench at Deepdale.

But realistically, he believes it’s all about consolidation and avoiding the yo-yo tag in a never-ever ending saga of promotion and relegation.

“It’s always nice to get to Wembley again, get a win, and think yes we are in the top league again, but then maybe 10 games into next season when you are not winning again and bottom of the league it is all doom and gloom,” Hill explained.

“We have had a lot of ups and downs, a lot of emotions and we just need a platform now to make sure if we do go up in the next two-three years we can stay there and make a proper go of it rather than yo-yoing all over the place.”

The 37-year-old can rest during this week’s international break, but says he’s just as eager to make Hall sweat over his place when Rs face Middlesbrough on Friday week.

He added: “You are always a little bit nervous when you have been out of the fold for a few months.

“You feel you can get a little bit rusty and that it will take you a little bit longer to get back into the groove, but I’ve always kept myself fit, done work in the gym to keep myself strong.

“So I was patiently waiting for my time. I didn’t think it would come but lucky enough it has and I’ve enjoyed being back.”